Frequently Asked Questions
We offer one spot with each instructor per day, so the training time is all yours to take advantage of afternoon/ evening winds at Jetty Island. All instructors are trained, certified and insured by the International Kiteboarding Organization.
What is Included on Training Days?
- Our training lessons are designed to be full service while tailoring skill focus to your personal needs and level.
- Our program includes island transport, wetsuit, all required safety equipment (hemet, harness, vest), and all Kite equipment, control bar, and boards to get you on the water the right way. Radio helmet coaching is also utilized to maximize communication.
What different lessons do you offer?
- Shallow Water Lessons - Typically for your first 2-3 times out but can also be useful for other progression or refresher skills including Water Starts, Self Rescue, Launching and landing.
- Deep Water Lessons - This lesson is used once you are up and riding the board consistently for longer rides and want Jetski support. Instruction time begins on the beach or in the water depending on your level and will not include the island transport time.
What time of day do lessons occur?
- Lessons are always scheduled to meet for transport between 2-4pm and often go into the evening... you will be updated the morning of your reserved training date on wind conditions and meeting time by 10am by your instructor.
How long are training sessions?
- We offer one lesson spot per day with each instructor on our team. This allows the time to receive 2-3 hours of instruction depending on wind. With transport to and from the island, and walking to the beach launch you can expect your entire experience will usually be a 3-5 hour day, with meet up time falling between 2-4pm. You are only charged for instructional time on the beach and in the water.
Where do we meet for training? All training takes place at Jetty Island. Directions to our meeting location for pick up and transport to the island are located HERE
How long does it take to become a kiteboarder ? - Typically it takes clients anywhere from 10-30 hours of supervised instruction before they are confident to begin practicing on their own. This will depend on fitness level, experience in other sports and availability to get on the water. This is why its recommended to reserve multiple days on the training calendar in case the wind does not cooperate on all of your reserved training days. International Kiteboarding Skill Standards from the IKO
Level 1 - Discovery / Level 2 - Intermediate / Level 3 - Independent / Level 4 - Advanced
Can I take a lesson with a friend ? - Sharing time with a friend for your first couple of lessons is a great way to get started with a “add a friend flat rate” of $125 each time out. Once you begin working on intermediate skills, you can come out together, but would go separately with the same instructor taking turns to support each of you.
Can I rent equipment ? - Liability in the US does not allow us to rent equipment out with out having an instructor there for safety and support.
Can I get a discount If I have my own equipment ? - You are welcome to bring your own equipment and instructors can evaluate it safety for use in the lesson and wind conditions that day, but no discounts are available as the instructor performs the same service. If you do choose to bring your own gear please let us know in advance.
What if there is no wind on my training day ? - No Wind - No Charge…. Instructors make the call on the wind the morning of your reserved training day(s), updating you by 10am about meeting time. We pride ourselves in lining up the forecast for great training days at Jetty Island, but realize we are reliant on mother nature and conditions can sometimes change. In the case training is green lit and the wind does not show, you will not be charged. This is why its recommended to reserve multiple days on the training calendar in case the wind does not cooperate on all of your days.
What should I bring with me to my training day ? - Come prepared to be outside for the days weather. Wetsuit, sunscreen, towel, hat, snacks, water, and warm clothing for end of the day. Drink a lot of water and stretch out before hand. The only bathrooms located on Jetty island are at the dock.
Is a wetsuit required ? - Yes, typical thickness recommended is 4/3, Wetsuit can be provided with reserved training.
How to reserve and schedule training days?
- Complete the Rider intake form if you are ready to train with us this season!
- To secure your spot we ask for a 2 hour deposit upfront, that will be held until the end of the season or your last confirmed training session with us.
If you are serious about becoming an Independent Kiteboarder - You may have already been flying a land based training kite on your own to dial in basic flying skills. If not we can also get you started for your first day out!
Do you use Radio Coaching ? - Yes, we use BBTalking headsets with students, typically at riding level for real time coaching on the water.
Why are Talking Headsets Beneficial ? - Through our experience as Instructors, it enables us to give our students directions for safety and real-time skill correction while they are in current motion of learning.
What is the average age range / minimum age ? - Average age of our clients tend to be between 25-65 years of age. It is possible to get started as young as 12 with special instruction.
What is your Cancelation Policy ? - Cancellation policy. We require a minimum of 72 hours notice for cancellation so we have every opportunity to get another rider out onto the water. We ask that you make every effort to keep your scheduled reservation and to arrive on time. For all clients who miss their reservation with no prior communication to Urban Surf Kiteboarding will be charged 1 hour of their reserved training time. All incomplete lessons or unused credits will be refunded after a 4% processing fee at the end of the season (September 15th)
Is kiteboarding dangerous ? - Like every extreme sport there are always inherent risks, and this one being 3 sports in one is why it is so beneficial to have the direction, supervision and support of an instructor trained and certified by the International Kiteboarding Organization. Being patience and learning the skills necessary to make kiteboarding fun and safe will help lower risks for you and others around you.